Individual differences in perceptual problem-solving ability: A response analysis approach

This study investigates the performance of a large sample of eleven year olds on a perceptual maze task, which has the advantage that it can either be used as a psychometric test or a problem-solving task. The sample was trisected on the basis of the overall pass/fail score and the three ability level groups were compared with respect to their overall response paths and on specific binary decision configurations. Clear differences between the groups were found in the distribution of solution paths, even on quite simple items. Some reasons for these differences were derived from the analysis of the specific binary responses since the prevalence of certain types of errors and responses were found to be associated with level of ability. Explanations for the observed qualitative differences in maze solving are put forward together with a discussion of the viability of the experimental approach adopted.